The virus was primarily transmitted through mosquito bite blood contamination, although it can also be passed from mother to child and through sexual intercourse.

It is not believed that the virus can infect methamphetamine.

However, the town’s outgoing mayor, Tina Miceli, criticised the Facebook post, saying: "I am concerned about the information that is disseminated to the community and our surrounding communities, and how they are getting their information. I don’t want residents afraid without having information."